Making sure our loved ones are well cared for is a top priority. That’s why so many of us do it ourselves. After all, if you want something done right, don’t you have to do it yourself? Not necessarily. Balancing work, a growing family, and more can make caring for a loved one more difficult. We’re here to help. Choosing the right caregiver for your loved one can be a difficult decision, so we’ve come up with some checklist items to help you assess your needs when looking for an in-home care provider.

Time

Think about how much time you are realistically able to give to caring for your loved one, versus how much time you wish you could spend with them. Do you need 24/7 help, a daily visit, or just one check-in per week? Consider how often you’d like some assistance.

Tasks

We know how difficult some housework can be for patients who struggle with mobility, so ask yourself: what else needs to be done? Caregivers not only provide medical assistance to patients, but can also tackle some light laundry and household responsibilities so you and your loved one’s peace of mind and safety needs are met.

Techniques

In addition to medical services, some in-home caregivers can offer holistic healing remedies to help patients relax and ease symptoms of a variety of ailments. They may do so through the use of breathing techniques and essential oils. If you value strength of the mind and spirit as much as physical needs, a caregiver who offers some holistic care may be right for you and your loved one.

Once you evaluate the needs of yourself and your loved one, research local in-home caregiver referral services. Agencies can consult with you to determine who might be the best fit for you. If you’re located in North Carolina, Aroga home care services can refer caregivers who can meet a myriad of needs, including:

Bathing and personal hygiene care,
Alzheimer’s/Dementia care,
Light housekeeping and laundry,
Meal preparation,
Palliative care,
And so much more!

We refer caregivers that provide companionship. Your loved one will be cared for by certified professionals who bring positive energy and care to their work. Sometimes if you want something done right, you’ll need a little bit of help. Visit arogacare.com to see how Aroga home care services can help you.

1. Assess the level of care needed

Once it becomes apparent that you or your loved one needs assistance from an outside provider, the next area to assess is care needs. Often hospital nurse case managers or physicians will determine what level of care is appropriate; however, many loved ones find themselves needing to make those decisions on their own. Among other things, caregivers can help with dressing, bathing, feeding and medication reminders as well as assist with household duties such as cooking, cleaning and laundry. Additionally, caregivers can go to appointments and attend doctors’ appointments serving as a second set of eyes and ears.

Aroga’s team of professionals are experienced in helping clients determine the most appropriate level of care. Knowing what the care needs are will help determine the caregiver skill level that is needed well as the cost aligned with those needs.

2.Get the most qualified Caregiver

Although home care companies may have a tendency to match clients with the most available caregivers it is important to ask for the most qualified caregivers, especially when dealing with specific conditions such as post-surgical care, dementia and chronic illness. Many home care companies focus on the amount of time they have been in business; however, the more important question should be how much experience does the caregiver have? The average agency in 2016 had a 60% caregiver turnover rate and employees with on average 1-2 years of experience.

One principle difference with Aroga is that caregivers we refer have approximately 8-10 years of experience. Aroga’s professional team has over 35 years combined experience in home care and understand the unique needs of their clients. We ensure clients get the most qualified caregivers by matching them with providers who meet their spicific requests and unique needs.

3. Interview Caregivers

It is important to find a caregiver you are completely happy with. It may take interviewing several caregivers before deciding on an individual that is best for you.

Aroga is happy to refer several care providers for you to interview to ensure you are completely comfortable with your caregiver. We offer reviews and references to help you make the best decision for you or your loved one.

4. Make sure Credentials are Checked

Most providers are Certified Nurse Assistants (CNA’s) and have completed a training program and competency exam. Home care companies are mandated to conduct background checks, but it is also a good idea to ask for references and reviews on caregivers. Knowing a caregiver’s background and getting feedback from individuals who have worked with them in the past can help confirm experience and competency.

Caregivers in our registry carry their own professional liability insurance and all providers undergo a thorough background assessment and screening process before being referred to clients. All caregivers referred by Aroga must pass through a background check and screening process that includes…

o Social security number trace and verification

o Federal and state criminal records, felony and misdemeanor verification

o National sex offender registry check

o Motor vehicle check

o License/credential verification

Aroga is insured, bonded and accredited through the Better Business Burrow.

5. Cost should reflect experience

Many agencies have a set price point regardless of the experience and client service needs. Often times experienced caregivers are underpaid leading to high turnover rates and less available qualified caregivers.

Our mission with Aroga is to refer caregivers that are qualified and will continue providing services for the duration care is needed. Caregivers in our registry can negotiate their rate based on the level of care needed and their experience. Basically, the more experience and specialty training a caregiver has the higher their compensation they receive and higher the cost. Cost is often a deciding factor when clients are looking for care providers, we are committed to ensuring our clients get what they are paying for.

Where to Start if you are Looking for In-Home Care